Accused Posed as Philippines-Trained Medical Expert; FIR Registered After Court Order
Chennai – A 37-year-old woman in Chennai was allegedly duped of ₹70 lakh by a fraudster posing as an MBBS doctor from the Philippines, who claimed expertise in clinical cosmetology and operated a skin and hair clinic under the brand name London Beautorium in Anna Nagar. The Central Crime Branch (CCB) registered an FIR only after six months, following a magistrate’s intervention.
Promise of a Lucrative Franchise Deal Turns Into Fraud
According to the victim, identified as Riji, the accused approached her in July 2024, claiming to be an internationally certified doctor with operational franchises in Hyderabad, Tirupati, Dubai, and the Philippines. The accused offered Riji a partnership opportunity, promising a franchise of London Beautorium in exchange for a hefty investment.
Despite not being from a medical background, Riji was further lured with an MBBS certificate, allegedly to help her secure licenses and run the franchise legally. Trusting the offer, she invested ₹70 lakh, only to later discover that the documents and medical qualifications were forged.
Social Media Used to Build False Credibility
The accused had built a high-profile presence on Instagram and YouTube, showcasing videos of herself performing aesthetic procedures, issuing training certificates, and inaugurating branches alongside a former Andhra Pradesh minister and a film celebrity. These visuals were used to establish credibility and attract potential investors.
However, the complainant later found out that unqualified individuals were performing invasive procedures under the London Beautorium brand, in violation of medical safety laws.
Medical Council, Health Department, and Police Inaction Alleged
Despite lodging complaints with the Tamil Nadu Medical Council (TNMC), the Directorate of Medical Services (DMS), and submitting evidence to the Central Crime Branch, the police allegedly dismissed the complaint in June 2025, citing it as a civil dispute.
Left with no alternative, the victim approached the Egmore Magistrate Court, which on July 3 directed the CCB to investigate and register a case, stating that the complaint disclosed a cognizable offence.
FIR Registered; Probe Underway
Following the magistrate’s order, the CCB registered an FIR under relevant sections of impersonation, forgery, and cheating, and launched an investigation.
In addition to Riji’s case, another complaint has been filed by R. Muthuraman (32), who alleges he was defrauded in a similar manner by the same accused. Both cases are now under active investigation.
Call for Action Against Fake Medical Practice
The victim has demanded strong penal action from the Tamil Nadu Medical Council and the health department, citing serious public health risks posed by unqualified practitioners operating under fake medical credentials.
“Her degree and training certificates are fake. By allowing non-doctors to perform procedures, she is putting lives at risk,” Riji said.
